With the Neue Staatsoper im Künstlerhaus - NEST for short - Vienna has had one more stage dedicated to music theater for young people since December 2024. In the immediate vicinity of the Vienna State Opera on Karlsplatz, a modern, innovative theater house has been created that specifically appeals to children, teenagers, young adults and families.
The NEST is not only an architectural highlight - the historical shell of the Künstlerhaus meets contemporary stage technology - but also a place for cultural participation in terms of content. Around 100 performances and 80 interactive workshops are on the program each season. Opera, music theater and creative mediation formats are rethought here: sensual, accessible and always at eye level with the young audience.
NEST auditorium © Martina Berger
One of NEST's central aims is accessibility - both literally and figuratively. Whether school classes, families or individual visitors: the Neue Staatsoper opens doors to the world of art without fear of thresholds. Stagings range from specially conceived children's operas to productions that address social issues and invite reflection.
This makes NEST not only an important place for musical education, but also a cultural beacon for a new audience - a must for anyone who wants to experience Vienna from its young, forward-looking side.
